48. Do Good Deeds Invite More Bad Ones?

In this episode of "No Stupid Questions," Angela Duckworth and Stephen Dubner explore the concept of moral hazard through the lens of dog poop, discussing whether acts of civic kindness, like cleaning up after others, inadvertently encourage irresponsible behavior. They share personal anecdotes, including Angela's husband's "poop angel" efforts and a DNA-based solution proposed for dog waste management. The conversation then shifts to a listener question about the most significant choice a human can make, with responses ranging from choosing a life partner and having children to Viktor Frankl's philosophy of finding meaning in uncontrollable circumstances, ultimately concluding that recognizing and exercising one's autonomy in responding to life's challenges is paramount.